That has to be one of the most comprehensive semi-final performances in recent NRL history, the Sea Eagles romping into the grand final qualifier with a 42-6 thumping of the Roosters in Mackay.

It was so comprehensive Des Hasler even had time to take Tom Trbojevic off with 15 minutes to go, closely followed by Daly Cherry-Evans, as Manly quickly put the loss to Melbourne behind them. Trbojevic finished with two tries and Cherry-Evans was spectacular in the first half.

They’ll next play Wayne Bennett’s South Sydney for a spot in the decider at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night.

It’s such a harsh way to end for the Roosters, who have battled all year with a tremendous injury toll. This shouldn’t take away from their achievement, but there was only going to be one winner tonight after the Sea Eagles blasted to an 18-0 lead inside as many minutes.

It’s the end of the road for Josh Morris, who will retire, while Isaac Liu will head to the Titans and assistant Craig Fitzgibbon will take over at the Sharks.

But the night belongs to one team; one who was last after a winless opening four rounds and on track for a grand final return.